“This young child has touched a nation,” said Smith. “This young child has definitely sent a message across the nation that we all must be diligent to protect them all.”

Patrick Stallworth, 39, and Derick Irisha Brown, 29, will be charged with capital murder and kidnapping, according to Smith. Police said they have not found a connection between the suspects and McKinney’s family.

Smith said investigators believe the perpetrators planned the incident.